Explosion Risk
Introduction
Explosive atmosphere is defined as the mixture with air, under normal atmospheric conditions, of flammable substances in the form of gases, vapors "Vapor (state)"), mists or dusts, in which, after ignition, combustion spreads to the entire unburned mixture.
Spanish law to prevent explosive atmosphere
In Spain, Law 31/1995 of November 8 on the Prevention of Occupational Risks,[1] determines the basic body of guarantees and responsibilities necessary to establish an adequate level of protection of the health of workers against the risks derived from working conditions.
As a development of the Occupational Risk Prevention Law, Royal Decree 681/2003, of June 12, was issued on the protection of the health and safety of workers exposed to risks derived from explosive atmospheres in the workplace.[2]
This Royal Decree indicates the regulations intended to guarantee the protection of workers against the risks derived from explosive atmospheres in the workplace. In the same sense, within the European Union, Directive 1999/92/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, of December 16, 1999, was issued.[3].
ATEX Directive
The ATEX Directive is not a precept, but is constantly reviewed and updated by a European Union commission in charge of specifying the guidelines to be followed by each of those involved in high-risk processes. It is divided into two variants:
The directive is applied in Europe through each of the national authorities that transfer its provisions into their legislation, and has different effects for each nation, therefore, Member States and others that request these requirements are directly responsible for its application and execution, as well as, for example, the management of notified bodies.[5].
The ATEX directive includes national provisions that apply directly to manufacturers, which is why they must discuss any problems with the contact points on the matter.
Likewise, it is the obligation of employers in the states where it is in force to equip their workers with tools that comply with the ATEX directive.